Bo City, Sierra Leone , August 20th, 2025. Bishop James Boye-Caulker officially opened the Annual Pastors’ Retreat on Wednesday, August 20th 2025, at the Child Reintegration Centre in Bo City.
Rev. Michael Tejan Gbenday, Conference Secretary, outlined the retreat’s purpose: a three-day gathering for spiritual leaders to address key church administration topics and strengthen fellowship. The agenda includes sessions on United Methodist doctrines, values, and liturgy. Rev. Michael Tejan Gbenday also highlighted the Bishop’s emphasis on pastoral education, evangelism, and accountability in ministry, urging attendees to incorporate the Bishop’s vision into their daily service.
Rev. Winston A. Ashcroft, Bo District Superintendent, expressed gratitude to Bishop James Boye-Caulker for selecting Bo as this year’s host. He noted the pastors’ enthusiasm for continued educational opportunities and committed to post-retreat follow-up to implement the Bishop’s priorities.
Rev. Francis Benson Charley, Director of Connectional Ministries, shared that this year’s theme “Leading in Challenging Times,” from 1 Samuel 30:6 reflects the church’s journey through grief after the passing of Resident Bishop John K. Yamandu and subsequent challenges. The retreat offers a time for pastors and ministerial students to evaluate their work, improve ineffective practices, and strengthen effective ones. Rev. Francis Benson Charley also highlighted the importance of theological education through the church’s distance learning programs.
In his address, Bishop James Boye-Caulker encouraged pastors to view the retreat as an opportunity for reflection and spiritual renewal. Expressed the importance of using individual gifts for God’s glory and outlined key focus areas: United Methodist values, unified liturgy, evangelism, and advanced theological education. The Bishop closed by underscoring the need for transparency and accountability in areas of ministry.
